Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

The Coziest Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe for Fall

Autumn’s crisp breeze whispers the magic of a classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe that melts hearts with every bite.

Warm spices dance through soft, pillowy dough studded with rich chocolate morsels.

These delectable treats capture the essence of cozy fall afternoons.

Comforting aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg swirl through the kitchen, promising pure delight.

Each cookie delivers a perfect balance of sweet pumpkin and decadent chocolate.

Bakers of all skill levels can effortlessly create these irresistible seasonal treasures.

Savor the warmth and joy packed into every single, scrumptious bite.

Chocolate Chips Shine in These Pumpkin Cookies

  • Whip Up Seasonal Comfort: Dive into a cozy autumn treat that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
  • Simplify Baking Magic: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make these cookies a breeze to prepare, even for novice bakers looking to impress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Fusion: Combine the rich, spicy notes of pumpkin with classic chocolate chips, creating an irresistible sweet treat that appeals to all ages and taste preferences.
  • Versatile Dessert Delight: Enjoy these cookies as a quick snack, after-school treat, potluck contribution, or festive dessert that captures the essence of fall in every delectable morsel.

What Goes Into Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a soft, tender cookie texture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their golden color and chewy consistency.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, warmth, and classic autumn flavor to the cookies.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps create a soft cookie structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure of the cookies.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread during baking.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Spices and Mix-ins:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger, Cloves: Provides warm, traditional pumpkin spice flavor to the cookies.
  • Chocolate Chips: Adds sweet chocolate bursts throughout the cookie.

How to Bake Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up your oven to 350°F.

Grab your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Softened butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Whip these ingredients until they transform into a light, fluffy mixture that looks like clouds.

Step 3: Introduce Moisture Elements

Add and mix thoroughly:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until everything looks smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Ground ginger
  • Cloves
  • Salt

Make sure all these spices are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Stir gently until just combined – avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Magic

Fold in chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Look for lightly browned edges as your signal.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Allow them to cool completely before devouring.

Tips for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

  • Use exactly 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree to maintain cookie moisture and prevent soggy texture.
  • Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and enhance flavor development.
  • Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips for different flavor profiles and texture variations.
  • Toast ground spices briefly in a dry pan before adding to the recipe to intensify their warm, aromatic qualities.
  • Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain texture.

Creative Mix-Ins for Pumpkin Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax egg instead of regular egg, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based alternative.
  • Keto-Friendly Pumpkin Cookies: Use almond flour, replace sugar with erythritol or stevia, and add sugar-free chocolate chips to create a low-carb option.
  • Nut-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Swap almond flour with oat flour or coconut flour to accommodate nut allergies while maintaining a similar texture.

Ways to Present Pumpkin Cookies at Gatherings

  • Fall Festive Plating: Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins for a cozy autumn presentation.
  • Dessert Pairing Perfection: Serve warm cookies alongside a mug of spiced chai latte or creamy vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful flavor combination.
  • Sweet Gift Packaging: Stack cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with burlap ribbon, creating charming homemade treats perfect for holiday gifting or neighborhood sharing.
  • Brunch Companion: Offer these cookies as a delectable morning treat with fresh coffee or as a fun dessert option during weekend breakfast gatherings.

Storing Pumpkin Cookies for Future Enjoyment

  • Store cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 5 days. Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating layers with wax paper. They'll stay delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature for best texture.
  • Keep cookies in a sealed container with a tight lid at room temperature for 3-4 days. Add a slice of bread to maintain moisture and softness.
  • Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-4 minutes to restore their just-baked warmth and gooey chocolate chips.

FAQs

  • Can I use canned or fresh pumpkin puree?

Canned pumpkin puree works best for consistent moisture and texture. If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s well-drained and pureed smoothly to avoid excess liquid in the cookies.

  • What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips complement the pumpkin flavor perfectly. You can also use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter taste.

  • How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for lightly browned edges and a set center. The cookies will still be soft when hot but will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

  • Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This can actually enhance the flavor and help prevent spreading during baking.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Sweet pumpkin chocolate chip cookies dance with seasonal warmth, blending classic autumn spices and rich chocolate morsels. Homemade comfort awaits you in each delightful, chewy bite of this irresistible seasonal treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (110 grams) brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup (180 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix-In Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (255 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip butter and sugars together until the mixture becomes airy and pale, creating a smooth base for the cookies.
  3. Incorporate pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to ensure a uniform, moist consistency.
  4. Sift together dry ingredients in a separate bowl, combining flour, baking soda, and warm spices to distribute evenly.
  5. Gently merge dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring carefully to avoid overmixing and maintain a tender texture.
  6. Delicately fold chocolate chips throughout the dough, ensuring even distribution for maximum flavor in each bite.
  7. Portion dough onto prepared baking sheets using rounded tablespoons, allowing sufficient space between cookies for spreading.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges turn a golden brown and cookies appear set, indicating perfect doneness.
  9. Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling and optimal texture.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter and eggs for smoother, more evenly mixed cookie dough that blends perfectly.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and create thicker, chewier cookies.
  • Swap chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for unique flavor variations that complement the warm pumpkin spices.
  • Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring the same delicious texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 128 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star